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Combine a good attitude with an even better work effort and you have a coaches' dream -- and according to head tennis coach Jim Hinson that's what he has.

The Lakers competed in the Mid-State Conference tournament Thursday and based on previous results this season, had a better than expected day.

The duo of Isaac Fondrick and Jesse Meyer ran away with the number two doubles bracket winning 27 of 36 games on their way to a victory over the Wadena-Deer Creek team in the championship match by a score of 6-2, 6-1.

"Isaac and Jesse played great today," said Hinson. " Losing only nine games in a tournament like this is quite impressive."

Co-captians Jake Hartman and CJ Hanson paired up to form the number one singles on their way to a second-place finish.

Their semifinals match versus the eventual champions from Park Rapids was the match of the tournament, however as the Hartman/Hanson combo lost in the tie breaker with a final score of 6-3, 3-6, 7-6, 7-5.

"That match was just really fun to watch," said Hinsin. "Those two really want another chance at the Park Rapids duo."

Ethan VanOfflen stepped in the number three singles position for the first time of the year and surprised some spectators by beating the number one seed Steve Smith from Park Rapids.

"I was really pleased with Ethan," said Hinson. "He was really tired but he fought through it and showed his true heart."

As the season nears its end some goals have been made for a young Laker squad that at the beginning of the season didn't seem likely.

"Our two doubles teams look to have some high expectations for themselves -- with good reason," said Hinson. "Tennis is a thinking man's game and we just need work on communication and volleys."